i. Minerals and metals
A mineral is a natural substance of organic or inorganic origin with definite chemical and physical properties.
- Iron Ore: Major iron ore reserves are found in countries like Australia, Brazil, and Russia. India is also a significant producer of iron ore.
- Bauxite: Bauxite, used in aluminum production, is abundant in countries like Guinea, Australia, and Brazil. India also has substantial bauxite reserves.
- Copper: Copper deposits are found in Chile, Peru, and the United States, among other countries. India also has copper resources.
- Gold: Major gold-producing countries include China, Russia, and Australia. India has a significant demand for gold but relatively limited domestic production.
- Diamonds: Significant diamond reserves are located in countries like Russia, Botswana, and Canada.
Based on chemical and physical properties, minerals may be grouped under two main categories metallics and non-metallics which may further be classified as follows :
The following are the metallic minerals
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Iron |
The principal source of iron for the global iron and steel industry is iron ore. Therefore, it is crucial for the manufacturing of steel, which is crucial for maintaining a robust industrial foundation. Steelmaking uses 98 percent of the iron ore that is mined. Around 50 countries mine iron. The majority of the world’s total reserves of iron ore of 3,20,000 million tonnes is located in North America, Russia, the United Kingdom, Brazil, South Africa, and India.
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Copper |
It was one of the earliest metals used by men because it often occurs in a pure state. Copper is an indispensable metal in the electrical industry for making wires, electric motors, transformers, and generators. It is malleable and ductile. With 27% of the world’s copper production, Chile is the leading producer. Escondido and Collahuasi, two of the biggest mines in the world, are also located in the nation. Peru, a South American nation that accounts for 10% of global output, is next after Chile. India– Singhbhum(Jharkhand), Balaghat(Madhya Pradesh) and Jhunjhunu and Alwar(Rajasthan) |